Hasta La Ideas

Heatherwick Studio recently designed a visually intriguing vertical park/viewing point called the Xi’an Tree. It is located in the historic city of Xi’an, China, and it adopts the shape of a tree. It features stepped petal-like terraces, serving as platforms for visitors to explore the enjoy the spectacular view. It is tucked away in the Xi’an Centre Culture Business District (CCBD), which is located south of the city’s historic center. It is placed between the ruins of a temple and a tower.

Design: Heatherwick Studio

The Xi’an Tree features 56 terraces, each thoughtfully designed to host a variety of plant species, creating a series of cascading garden spaces that mimic the natural flow of a hillside. The terraces have been adorned with carefully selected greenery to showcase the diverse ecological zones found along the Silk Road. It includes different plant life – ranging from the resilient flora of alpine tundra regions to the hardy vegetation of the dry steppe. Each level provides a unique microclimate, creating a special habitat for the different plant species.

“Traveling up the vertical park that winds around its branching structure, you realize how biodiverse it is,” said Heatherwick Studio. “Like a botanical garden, each section holds a unique array of plants, many of which you’ve never seen before. High above the pedestrians wandering on the terraces below, you see Xi’an extending before you, new and old interwoven in this lively metropolis.”

The tree-like vertical park, as well as the broader design of the district, is inspired by Xi’an’s renowned Terracotta Army – which is a symbol of historical and cultural importance. Heatherwick Studio and local ceramics specialists collaborated to produce over 100,000 ceramic tiles. These tiles serve a functional purpose but also pay tribute to the ancient craftsmanship that characterized the Terracotta Army. It combines modern development with a sense of timeless artistry.

The district’s design language also incorporates elements that resemble the roofs of Xi’an’s traditional Chinese temples. The sweeping lines and elegant curves of the district’s skyline also pay homage to the cultural heritage. This creates a seamless and harmonious blend of contemporary and classic aesthetics.

The CCBD also includes different facilities such as residential apartment buildings, retail spaces like expansive malls, and open plazas. It also incorporates state-of-the-art office spaces and luxurious hotel accommodations, catering to both business and leisure travelers. Lush greenery is seen throughout the development, thereby creating a sense of peace and tranquility. Multiple pathways can be seen throughout the space, connecting different spots and locations.

The post Tree-Inspired Vertical Garden In China Includes 56 Terraces & Cascading Garden Spaces first appeared on Yanko Design.

Tech isn’t boring. At least, it shouldn’t be. We’re living in a world where pocket-sized wonders connect us to everything humanity has ever created, yet unboxing these marvels can feel like opening a pack of bland stationery. Unboxing videos which were once the highlight of every tech youtuber’s career is now practically an afterthought.

Why? Companies have ruined unboxing experiences to prioritize profits. You’d get chargers, earphones, cases, screen protectors, and sometimes even brand stickers (looking at you, Apple) inside smartphone boxes. Now, merely a phone and if you’re lucky, a braided cable. Designer Andrea Copellino has a solution to fix this problem – Bring back excitement, curiosity, and storytelling to technology using trading cards. Yes, trading cards. And it’s not as random as it sounds. It’s the perfect intersection of nostalgia, storytelling, and fun.

Designer: Andrea Copellino

To demonstrate this, Copellino chooses tech startup Nothing to demonstrate this idea. Nothing, a tech brand with a quirky ethos of transparency and an obsession with reintroducing joy into technology, is exactly the kind of company that could pull this off. Their design language already reads like a conversation with an old friend: clear materials that show the guts of the product, a marketing team that doesn’t mind poking fun at itself, and a YouTube channel where their designers casually break down creative decisions. It’s approachable and refreshingly human. But Francesco and his collaborator Francesco (yes, another Francesco), think the brand could do even more. They believe Nothing’s biggest untapped potential is right there in the unboxing experience.

Now, unboxing isn’t typically a topic that gets pulses racing, but it’s where Francesco’s storytelling brilliance shines. He’s reimagining unboxing as a chance to weave narrative into the very first interaction you have with a product. Instead of the usual manuals and filler paper, Francesco envisions collectible trading cards tucked into Nothing’s products. Imagine this: you open your new earbuds, and alongside them is a sleek card adorned with abstract art that hints at the product’s creative inspiration. Flip it over, and there’s a short story about the quirky origins of the design—like how pharmaceutical packaging inspired the bubble-like Ear (A) case.

These cards aren’t just gimmicks. They’re thoughtfully crafted artifacts. Each card would feature high-quality illustrations, metadata like product names and release dates, and captivating anecdotes. Even the card’s material and packaging echo Nothing’s aesthetic: semi-transparent paper, subtle textures, and a pierced detail that nods to their love for transparency. The goal isn’t just to inform but to delight. It’s tactile, personal, and—most importantly—memorable.

And the brilliance of this idea? It’s collectible. Francesco’s design aligns perfectly with how Nothing already connects with its audience. The company actively invites its community to participate in its creative process, from forums to YouTube comment sections. These cards could take that engagement to the next level. Imagine Nothing hosting design contests where fans create illustrations for the cards or special edition collectibles handed out at launch events. It’s a way to keep the community invested without the logistical nightmares of overly ambitious projects like Nothing’s Community Edition Phone.

But Francesco’s concept goes even deeper. Trading cards tap into something bigger than tech; they tap into culture. Millennials and Gen Z grew up with Pokémon cards, Magic: The Gathering, and other collectible phenomena. The resurgence of physical trading cards, fueled by their nostalgic and tactile appeal, isn’t slowing down. Francesco sees these cards as an opportunity to blend Nothing’s bold industrial design with the emotional pull of cherished childhood memories. It’s a way to bridge the cold utility of tech with the warmth of human experience.

And it’s practical too. The cards don’t rely on apps, servers, or any digital infrastructure—they’re yours forever. No subscriptions. No updates. Just a simple piece of art and story that fits perfectly in your hand (or a Pokémon binder, for those inclined). Even better, they’re scalable. Every Nothing device could come with a unique card, offering a new piece of the brand’s story to collectors with each purchase. It’s an idea that feels premium but doesn’t break the bank.

The most exciting part? This idea could redefine how we think about unboxing. Instead of it being an afterthought, it becomes an event—a chance to connect with the product and its creators on a deeper level. Francesco’s trading cards aren’t about adding unnecessary fluff; they’re about reminding us that technology isn’t just functional. It’s personal. It has stories, quirks, and, thanks to Nothing, a sense of humor.

Nothing’s ethos is rooted in challenging conventions, and Francesco’s trading card concept feels like an extension of that mission. It’s a bold, fun, and slightly eccentric idea that fits seamlessly into their brand DNA. It would be fun if Nothing entertained the concept – there’s really little to lose given how simple the execution is with something as basic as a trading card. At least it’ll revive the unboxing experience, turning it into something that has a little touch of intrigue and suspense… and everyone loves a little suspense, right?

The post This Designer Has A Wild Idea To Make Tech Companies Great Again – Tech Trading Cards first appeared on Yanko Design.

OBSBOT, known for its advancements in smart videography, has unveiled two thoughtfully designed products to enhance user experiences across diverse applications. The OBSBOT Tiny SE, an AI-powered PTZ Full HD webcam, and the OBSBOT Meet SE, an AI-powered Full HD webcam, cater to gamers, remote workers, content creators, and professionals. Here’s an in-depth look at these two new webcams, designed with thoughtful engineering and user-focused features.

Designer: OBSBOT

OBSBOT Tiny SE

The OBSBOT Tiny SE features a sleek and functional design with a two-axis gimbal, providing smooth pan and tilt capabilities. It is designed to keep users perfectly framed during live streams, presentations, or virtual meetings. This makes it particularly useful for professionals who often need to move during their presentations or gamers who want their movements captured without any distortion.

Its advanced sensor technology includes a 1/2.8-inch Stacked CMOS sensor with a 2.9μm pixel size and an f/1.8 aperture, delivering vivid colors and sharp details even in low-light environments. The inclusion of dual native ISOs and Staggered HDR ensures consistent image quality, no matter the lighting conditions. The Tiny SE provides ultra-smooth video recording at 1080P with 100 frames per second, making it an excellent choice for dynamic use cases such as fitness instructors recording workout sessions or YouTubers creating tutorial videos.

This webcam is powered by a Deep Learning Neural Network, which supports AI-powered tracking features. It can track body parts, hands, or zones, adapting to the specific needs of the user. Additionally, gesture controls allow for hands-free operation, a feature highly appreciated by chefs, crafters, or anyone who needs to keep their hands occupied while presenting. The preset functionality simplifies adjusting camera angles and settings, saving time for busy users.

With its minimalistic yet professional appearance, the Tiny SE fits seamlessly into modern workspaces. Its sturdy build ensures durability, and its compact form makes it easy to mount on a laptop or monitor. Users will find it particularly beneficial for creating professional-quality content or participating in high-stakes virtual meetings where clear visuals and precise tracking make a difference.

OBSBOT Meet SE

The OBSBOT Meet SE is a compact and lightweight webcam designed for those who need portability without sacrificing performance. Weighing only 33.2 grams, it’s incredibly easy to carry and install, making it perfect for students, freelancers, and remote workers who often switch workstations. Its clean lines and modern aesthetic are further accentuated by the availability of three attractive color options: Aurora Green, Space Grey, and Cloud White.

The Meet SE excels in video performance, offering 1080P video resolution at 100 frames per second, which ensures smooth motion and vibrant visuals. This makes it ideal for activities such as virtual classes, casual live streams, or family video calls. Its 1/2.8-inch Stacked CMOS sensor and Staggered HDR work together to maintain image clarity and vivid colors, even when lighting conditions are less than ideal.

AI Auto Framing is a key feature of the Meet SE, adapting seamlessly to different scenarios. Whether it’s a one-on-one video call, a group meeting, or a content recording session, the Meet SE ensures the subject remains centered and in focus. Gesture controls further simplify its operation, making it accessible even to those unfamiliar with advanced technology. The OBSBOT Center software enhances its functionality, offering features such as Bokeh, Auto Focus, and Beauty Mode. These features make the Meet SE a versatile choice for users who need a balance of functionality and ease of use.

With its lightweight design and straightforward usability, the Meet SE is particularly suited for educational settings, casual live streaming, and day-to-day communication needs. Its compatibility with popular platforms like Zoom, OBS, and Twitch ensures that it integrates effortlessly into existing workflows, making it a reliable tool for various user profiles.

Both the OBSBOT Tiny SE and Meet SE webcams emphasize OBSBOT’s commitment to making AI-powered imaging technology accessible. The Tiny SE offers dynamic tracking and advanced gimbal functionality, ideal for professionals and creators. Meanwhile, the Meet SE’s portability and user-friendly features cater to everyday needs, ensuring high-quality performance in a compact package.

The post OBSBOT’s New Additions: Tiny SE and Meet SE Webcams first appeared on Yanko Design.

UK architecture studio Foster + Partners has unveiled designs for the “undulating” Tempo development in Brazil, which encompasses a hotel and apartments facing a central garden.

Located outside of São Paulo along Praia Brava in the state of Santa Catarina, the Tempo project is designed to offer guests and residences a view of the nearby beach while incorporating nature throughout its two main buildings.

“The undulating development is designed to capture the best views of Praia Brava – a spectacular beach that is frequented by surfers – and the mountainous landscape,” said the studio.

Renderings show two irregularly-shaped buildings made up of stacks of amoeboid floor plates lined with terraces. An expansive garden is pictured at the centre of the buildings, while plants are shown covering each private deck.

“The Tempo hotel and residences capture the spirit of this vibrant coastal location,” said Foster + Partners head of studio David Summerfield.

“Nature is woven through every part of the development, which will take residents and guests on a truly spectacular journey from the beach to their whole-floor residences and private suites,”

According to the studio, each hotel room will feature a terrace that faces the oceanfront, divided from the interior by timber screen sliders.

At ground level, a valet area will connect to a “striking” lobby and restaurant containing a central, sunken outdoor seating area.

Interior images show a palette of predominantly dark timber and neutral-coloured concrete. Fluted glass is pictured running along exterior balconies.

The development’s residential building will contain single, whole-floor condominiums, while amenities such as pools, nature trails, pavilions and water trails will be interwoven throughout the development.

“Every element of our scheme has been carefully designed to establish new connections with the spectacular surroundings while providing the highest level of comfort and luxury,” said Foster + Partners partner Juan Frigerio.

“Tempo will be a new global destination that offers an entirely unique oceanfront experience.”

Other recently completed projects in Brazil include a penthouse redesigned by Philippe Starck and two skyscrapers by UNStudio, both in São Paulo.

The images are courtesy of Foster and Partners

The post Foster + Partners unveils design of beachfront residences in Brazil appeared first on Dezeen.

Wireless charging didn’t just free us from the tyranny of tangles, it also opened the doors to creative charger designs. Especially with the addition of magnetic force, chargers no longer needed to be stuck to walls or power outlets or even lie flat on charging beds. Of course, these still required the presence of often very conspicuous chargers that may look out of place in some situations, no matter how aesthetic they might be.

Some furniture makers have started integrating wireless charging into their designs but often end up making the areas too obvious, clashing with the otherwise minimalist and luxurious design of the product. This wireless charging innovation, in contrast, is almost completely invisible, save for a very subtle and elegant halo of light enclosing the charging area. In fact, this technology can be integrated into an equally innovative and sustainable stone-like material that transforms kitchen countertops and luxurious tables into futuristic charging spaces for phones.

Designer: Cosentino x FreePower

Imagine going to a bar and never having to worry about your phone dying. Simply put your mobile device down in front of you and have it charge while you sip your martini and make connections with the people around you. Or how about placing your phone on the kitchen table while you prepare dinner and listen to your favorite podcast, confident that your phone’s battery will be full by the time you’re done? All of this without a single wireless charger that stands out like a sore thumb.

FreePower’s technology was already making these James Bond-like scenarios a reality by integrating the wireless charging components in places you’d least expect them, specifically materials like marble and stone that you’d hardly expect to have embedded chargers. Its partnership with Cosentino, however, adds another twist to that dreamy technology, making it available on materials that are both luxurious and sustainable.

Cosentino’s Silestone, for example, is a low-silica mineral surface that uses recycled materials to reduce the amount of crystallized silica used. Dekton, on the other hand, mimics the appearance and texture of porcelain while using carbon-neutral materials that also help improve its durability and scratch resistance. Both materials are also produced using sustainable processes that don’t sacrifice the planet’s health in the name of luxury.

The collaboration between FreePower and Cosentino opens a new avenue for integrating convenient wireless charging spaces into luxurious but sustainable surfaces that can be used in kitchens, bathrooms, bars, conference tables, and even desks. The only drawback to this ideal situation is that these pieces of furniture have to be custom made, as retrofitting existing counters and tabletops is not yet possible at this time.

The post Marble kitchen counters and tabletops will charge your phone while you work first appeared on Yanko Design.